Late to the party.

[walney]

I completed run 1 of week 9 on new years day so it's a bit late for my first blog post but here goes!

I always told myself and anyone that would listen that I am just not a runner.

I had always cycled but motorbikes and family commitments made that a distant memory so the cycling faded away.

Returning to the bike 6 months ago meant a 2 stone weight loss but i was worried about the dark nights and cold weather keeping me off the bike and on the sofa.

Step in C25K! I took out my 6 year old (unused!) running shoes and hit the pavement.

Most runs took place in the dead of night and in disguise ( see picture!)

Now I can mange 5K in about 26 minutes and run for every bus whether I need to or not.

It feels so liberating to just be able to pick up the pace and have that child like feeling of joy from just running.

Cycling is still my first love however despite being able to manage 100 miles on a bike I never felt "fit" in the way I do now I can run.

Thanks for listening!

[greenlegs Graduate]

Lovely blog - like the bit about running in the dark and in disguise - I know that feeling. It's good that I now feel ok about being out when it is light - and have even bought myself running tights today. Not sure when they'll get their first outing in daylight though...

5k in 26 minutes is - waaaaay out of my league! Very impressive. Interesting comparisons between cycling and running. I used to do a bit of cycling, but gave up because it made my face flare up in cold weather (I'm hoping running isn't going to do that too) - but I don't think it ever pushed me anything like running does.

You will be getting that shiny green 'graduate' badge very soon!

[skf28 Graduate]

Well done, it's always good to hear about those of you who were definitely not runners graduating 5k in 26 mins sounds pretty damn good! I am looking forward to starting wk2 tomorrow I wonder what Laura has in store for me?

Look forward to seeing your next posts.

[walney Graduate]

Thanks for the comments.

Running as a sport never really attracted me as i found cycling allowed me to explore further for the same effort.

I think though, that running is a really important component of other sports. I do feel the benefit of the fitness when I go walking on the fells.

A really helpful aspect for me was having to walk 2 miles each day as aprt of my commute.

This helped me get use to being on my feet!

[gdeann Graduate]

Only a few more runs until you are an "official Graduate" Very amazing time on your 5K!!!! Most graduate not meeting the 30 minute/5K mark. Very well done on the weight loss as well! Wishing you a great 2013!!!! Gayle

[walney Graduate]

Thanks gayle, The sense of community and support on here should help keep me running.